NFPA Certificates of Educational Achievement

Frequently asked questions

What is an NFPA certificate?An NFPA "certificate of educational achievement" recognizes that an individual has successfully met the requisites of an NFPA certificate program, including attainment of the training program’s learning objectives. It is issued after an individual has successfully completed the required training program and has obtained a passing score on an examination. The examination is based solely on the educational content of the seminar and will take the form of an open book examination.

What does my certificate of educational achievement mean? (Certificate Inference)Your certificate of educational achievement demonstrates that you have met the educational objectives of the NFPA training program you attended. It makes no claims as to your proficiency in conducting any specific task or job.

Why should I participate in a NFPA certificate program? (Certificate Purpose)NFPA certificate programs are based on established best practices in adult education. NFPA certificate programs go beyond NFPA’s traditional seminars by measuring your knowledge on the subject matter taught, and awarding certificates of educational achievement, which demonstrate that you have achieved the educational objectives of the training program you attended.

Who should get a NFPA certificate of educational achievement?Professionals who are looking to document that they understand the core concepts found within the training program in which they have participated.

What is the difference between a certificate of educational achievement and a professional certification?A "certificate of educational achievement" is awarded after the completion of an NFPA certificate program. It recognizes that an individual has successfully completed the requisites of a one-time educational course or training program. NFPA certificate programs are not what are generally known as professional certifications. Professional certifications are typically programs that certify professional or occupational competence and require certain prerequisites such as education, years of experience, successfully passing an examination, and ongoing eligibility requirements (such as retesting or participating in a minimum number of educational activities). While an NFPA certificate of educational achievement is a valuable recognition of educational achievement that can enhance your professional development, there is no professional or other credential associated with a certificate and certificate holders may not claim to be certified, licensed, accredited, or registered to engage in a specific occupation or profession.

How do I know NFPA certificate programs are of a high quality?NFPA training follows established best practices in adult education, and conforms to ANSI/IACET 1-2007 Standard for Continuing Education and Training.

What type of examination is used?NFPA certificate programs use an online, open book examination as an assessment tool. The exam consists of multiple choice questions based on the content found within the program.

What are the requirements for obtaining a certificate of educational achievement? (Certificate Requirements)Individuals must participate in 90% of the certificate program as required by ANSI/IACET 1-2007, and measured by attendance forms distributed during the program. Individuals must also receive a minimum passing grade on the examination at the conclusion of the training program. Individuals must also agree not to disclose the contents of the examination nor reproduce examination materials.

What if I need an accommodation to take the examination?Participants with sensory, visual, orthopedic, or other disabilities that would prevent them from taking the examination under standard conditions may request special accommodations and considerations. You must submit a written request, at the time you register, that explains the disability (i.e., the diagnosis), the type of accommodation you feel is appropriate, and attach supporting documentation of the diagnosis from a qualified healthcare professional. For information on submitting a request for accommodation please call 508-895-8367. After receiving the request and appropriate documentation, NFPA will contact you to confirm the special accommodation arrangements.

What if I don’t pass the examination?The certificate program is designed to effectively convey the core knowledge needed to pass the examination, and most individuals with a reasonable amount of study and review will pass the examination. Individuals who do not pass the examination may elect to retake the examination. Re-taking of the examination must be completed before NFPA discontinues the certificate program on the edition of the code or standard that the participant received training on.

Do I have to renew my certificate of educational achievement?The certificate of educational achievement acknowledges an individual’s attainment of the intended learning objectives from a specific certificate program. The information presented in the training is based on current knowledge and practice and/or on a specific code edition. Therefore, NFPA recommends remaining current with the latest codes and standards by periodically participating in appropriate NFPA certificate programs as your field and as code and standards evolve and update.

What if I have a complaint regarding the outcome of my certificate program?NFPA endeavors to deal with any individual’s complaint in a constructive and timely manner. Informal complaints, such as complaints made on evaluation forms, will be reviewed by the appropriate NFPA staff and any necessary action for improvement will be taken. Formal complaints may be submitted to NFPA’s professional development department by submitting it online, or by mail at NFPA, Fulfillment Center, 11 Tracy Drive, Avon, MA 02322. Formal complaints will be reviewed and responded to within 30 days.

Does NFPA keep a record of the seminars and certificate programs I’ve attended?Yes. NFPA maintains confidential and secured records of all participants’ training as required by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training. These records are kept for seven years. If you ever need to document your past training, you may log in to your "My Training Page" on the NFPA website and view the educational products you have purchased. To have an official transcript sent to you, contact NFPA professional development by submitting request online, or by mail at NFPA, Fulfillment Center, 11 Tracy Drive, Avon, MA 02322.